'Shēng wàng' literally combines 'shēng' (sound, voice, reputation) and 'wàng' (hope, expectation, respect). Together, they convey the idea of a person’s or organization’s widely recognized and respected standing in society — not just popularity, but earned credibility and influence based on integrity, achievement, or moral authority. It’s often used for leaders, scholars, institutions, or brands whose reputation inspires trust and admiration.

This word carries a formal, positive connotation and appears frequently in news reports, academic writing, and official speeches. Unlike casual terms like 'míng qì' (fame), 'shēng wàng' emphasizes social esteem rooted in consistent conduct or contribution. It is rarely used for individuals without demonstrated impact — you wouldn’t say a new intern has high 'shēng wàng'. It’s also distinct from 'zhí dé xìn lài' (trustworthiness), which focuses on reliability rather than broad societal recognition.